By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
PreferencesDenyAccept
Advertisement - support us by supporting our partners!
SWRFA 27th Annual Conference | Let the Music Grow | Sep. 23-27, 2026 Austin, TX

Upcoming Events

Lookin for the Folk Alliance International Conference? Go here.

Ask an Expert: Contracts, Insurance, Visas, Employment, and Legislation in the COVID-19 Era
March 27, 2020
March 27, 2020
Webinar
Presented by the Alliance for Performing Arts Conferences (APAC)
Learn from music industry experts about contracts, finances, visas, insurance, and general tips of employment as a musician and artist in the folk community.
Coping with the New Norm and Connecting Folk | CommUNITY Online
April 8, 2020
April 8, 2020
Webinar
Hear talks from music industry professionals on adapting to sudden changes and struggles while being a musician and artist, (especially COVID-19). Music industry leaders share exclusive tips and tricks on best practices within the music industry and how to keep a balanced lifestyle.
Livestreaming: Earning a Living and Reaching Fans | CommUNITY Online
April 17, 2020
April 17, 2020
Webinar
Learn from music industry professionals the best ways to connect with and grow your fan base, all through live streaming!
Ask an Expert: The Legal Landscape of Livestreaming
April 21, 2020
April 21, 2020
Webinar
Presented by the Alliance for Performing Arts Conferences
Learn from music industry experts, (specially APAC & APAP) about the legality behind live streams, and making sure your earn the money you are owed from royalties and copyright as an artist and musician.
Ask an Expert: Tech Tips and Tricks for Successful Livestreaming
April 28, 2020
April 28, 2020
Webinar
Learn tips and tricks from music industry professionals on how to up your production quality when it comes to live streaming and recording your music!
Best Practices in Advocacy Around the World | CommUNITY Online
April 29, 2020
April 29, 2020
Webinar
As the world constantly changes, sometimes very quickly, hear from music industry leaders and veterans on how to adapt to the constant, major changes of the music industry as a musician and an artist.
Teaching Online Music Lessons in a New Learning Environment | CommUNITY Online
May 6, 2020
May 6, 2020
Webinar
Looking to teach music or start your own music or instrument lessons? Hear from current music teachers and professionals on how the conduct their lessons both in person and virtually.
Canceled or Postponed: Having Necessary Conversations | CommUNITY Online
May 13, 2020
May 13, 2020
Webinar
How to face challenging and unprecedented times as a musician and artist. Learn how to cope with sudden changes to your tours and performances as an artist and how to recuperate that missing revenue.
Reinventing a Broken Wheel: Frank Conversations, Future Opportunities | CommUNITY Online
May 22, 2020
May 22, 2020
Webinar
Join musicians and music industry leaders as they speak to seeing the bigger picture of making music, especially while coping with sudden change and an predictable landscape.
Steering the Ship Through the Storm | CommUNITY Online
June 17, 2020
June 17, 2020
Webinar
Join music industry veterans and leaders as the speak to being a leader during difficult times, (specially COVID-19), and how to persevere and inspire through challenges.
Ask an Expert: The GRAMMY Awards Process
June 22, 2020
June 22, 2020
Webinar
Learn exclusive tips and tricks from music industry experts on how to apply for a GRAMMY categorey and the steps that follow the nominee and recipient process.
Ask an Expert: Licensing and Permissions Requirements for Livestream and Rebroadcast: A Deeper Diver
July 23, 2020
July 23, 2020
Webinar
Learn from industry experts on rules and process surrounding licensing and permissions when it comes to streaming and re-broadcasting your own music. Hear the importance of collecting revenue from other services and organizations streaming your music.
Cause and Effect - Artist as Architect for Social Change | CommUNITY Online
July 28, 2020
July 28, 2020
Webinar
Presented by Global Toronto
Learn from fellow musicians and music industry leaders on how to balance being an activist with being an artist, as well as including activism within your music/songs and business.
What Fans Want: Consumption Trends in Music Now | CommUNITY Online
July 30, 2020
July 30, 2020
Webinar
Learn from music industry professionals on what are the best ways to engage and reach your fan base as a folk musician and artist.
Teaching Traditions | CommUNITY Online
August 5, 2020
August 5, 2020
Webinar
Interested in teaching music? Hear from industry veterans on how to be an engaging and effective teacher, all while keeping your own personality and traditions in your teaching methods and music lessons.
Opening Virtual Doors to ALL Audiences | Access Points
September 9, 2020
September 9, 2020
Webinar
Learn the ins and outs of accessibility and how we can make the music industry more accessible as a whole. Make your performances and music shows accessible for everyone with this guide!
Ask an Expert: The Mechanics of Mechanical Licensing
September 23, 2020
September 23, 2020
Webinar
Presented by the Mechanical Licensing Collective
Learn about all about earning your money through royalties and different streaming avenues as a folk musician and artist. Get the money you deserve for your music in the music industry!
Developing Truth and Reconciliation in the Music Industry
September 28, 2020
September 28, 2020
Webinar
Hear from Indigenous communities about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and how it has affected their lives. Indigenous artist and musicians speak to their work within their communities and the music industry and what cultural change they are trying to make.
Fan Subscriptions, Patronage, and Growing a Sustainable Career | CommUNITY Online
September 30, 2020
September 30, 2020
Webinar
Presented by Bandzoogle
How to generate online income as a folk artist and musician. Learn tips and tricks from music industry professionals about starting and running subscription services for fans and learning to really engage with your fanbase as an artist.
Getting the Best Sound for Your Livestream | CommUNITY Online
October 28, 2020
October 28, 2020
Webinar
Presented by Ear Trumpet Labs
Join music industry experts as they share tips and tricks on the latest technology and practices you can use to produce amazing sounding online, recorded performances. A must watch for folk artists and musicians looking to improve their music recording skills.,
The Future is Green - Envisioning and Enacting a Sustainable Music Industry | CommUNITY Online
November 12, 2020
November 12, 2020
Webinar
Learn how to lead an environmentally responsible life as a folk musician and artist. Gain best practices and industry insight about ways to be more environmentally friendly and how to stick with it!
Going Public: Putting Together a Promotion Plan That WORKS | CommUNITY Online
April 21, 2021
April 21, 2021
Webinar
Sponsored by Kari Estrin Management/Consulting & Radio Promo
A guide for artists and folk musicians on how to create strategies around boosting and promoting their music, especially new releases. Learn tips and tricks on growing your brand and social media in order to gain more fans and followers of your music.
What is Folk-Life Balance?
May 13, 2021
May 13, 2021
Webinar
Balancing and separating your career as a musician from your passion and love for music is difficult. Learn tips of self-care from music industry veterans as they share personal experiences on how to sustain yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally as a folk artist.
Good Grief | Folk-Life Balance
May 20, 2021
May 20, 2021
Webinar
How to cope, heal, and grow while experiencing grief as a folk artist and musician. Learn best practices to healing and taking care of yourself as you grieve while also having to sustain and navigate your music career and the industry.
Creatives and Addiction | Folk-Life Balance
May 27, 2021
May 27, 2021
Webinar
Being an artist and musician is difficult in the folk music industry, especially while coping with addiction and substance abuse. Hear from fellow folk musicians on recovery from addiction, as well as coping with your mental health.
Crowdfunding - Writing the Next Chapter
July 22, 2021
July 22, 2021
Webinar
Learn tips and tricks to crowdfunding as a musician and folk artist, and the best way to bring in revenue and fans through crowdfunding. Musicians share their real world experience in crowdfunding during their careers.
Real Talk (Part 1): Collaborative Problem Solving in the Live Touring Ecology
July 27, 2021
July 27, 2021
Webinar
Hear real music industry gossip and discussion between artist, managers, agents, and festival runners on how to become more collaborative and supportive as a folk music community and industry. These music industry experts share their experiences within folk music.
Online Revenue Generating for Musicians
August 26, 2021
August 26, 2021
Webinar
Sponsored by Bandzoogle
Folk music industry professionals talk about the challenges musicians face financially, and how to make your career as an artist more sustainable and less stressful. Great tips and tricks to the music industry and how to boost yourself as an artist.
Real Talk (Part 2): Collaborative Problem Solving in the Live Touring Ecology
September 1, 2021
September 1, 2021
Webinar
Hear real music industry gossip and discussion between artist, managers, agents, and festival runners on how to become more collaborative and supportive as a folk music community and industry. These music industry experts share their experiences within folk music.
The Power of Fan Engagement
March 9, 2022
March 9, 2022
Webinar
Sponsored by Kari Estrin Management/Consulting & Radio Promo
Hear from experienced folk musicians and artist about how to grow your own fanbase, as well as how to continually engage your fans in order to expand your audience.
Collecting Digital Royalties and Music Fairness Advocacy
April 6, 2022
April 6, 2022
Webinar
Presented by SoundExchange
Empower yourself as a folk artist and musician by learning about music royalties and how you can get yours! This webinar also includes information about your creator rights and earning fair pay as an artist or band within the music industry!
Building a Beautiful Website for Musicians
November 16, 2022
November 16, 2022
Webinar
Presented by Bandzoogle
Learn step by step how to easily make your own website, through Bandzoogle, for your music career! Includes beginner friendly tips and tricks for how to make your website look great as a musician or band.
How to Tour and Vacation at the Same Time
April 11, 2023
April 11, 2023
Webinar
Sponsored by Fan Club Cruises and Celebrity Cruises
Gain insight into how to perform on tours as a folk musician -- all while being on a cruise! A great way to play to your fan-base as an artist and a more relaxing, vacation-based way of touring.
Own Your Audience
May 23, 2023
May 23, 2023
Webinar
Sponsored by MySeat Media
Learn the best ways to connect and keep your fans as a folk musician and artist! Tips on how to easily build a platform that reflects your brand and style using MySeat Media, all while actively engaging and growing your fanbase.
Submitting an Outstanding Showcase Application
June 7, 2023
June 7, 2023
Webinar
Intro tutorial and advice from experts on how to apply to music showcases as a musician and artist. Learn the tips and tricks of how to prepare a music showcase applications, including recording your performances, and how to wow the judges and jurors! Help take your music career to the next level.
Pro Feedback on Your Tracks
June 20, 2023
June 20, 2023
Webinar
Presented by Myxt
Expert music producers share insight into the music producing process, as well as give tips and feedback to folk music artist on how to take their music to the next level. Utilize Myxt, a music management and collaboration application to workshop your own music!
Cover Your Assets: Will and Estate Planning with Northwestern Mutual
August 30, 2023
August 30, 2023
Webinar
Sponsored by Northwestern Mutual
As a musician and artist, planning for the legacy of your music and artwork is important! Learn step by step the essentials of will and estate planning, including advice specifically to the music industry and artist.
Dancing On Top of the Lyrics: Be an Effective Song Writer
October 3, 2023
October 3, 2023
Webinar
Sponsored by Kari Estrin Management/Consulting
Tips and tricks for being an effective and clear songwriter! Folk music industry experts discuss best practices for writing songs lyrics that are meaningful and convey the messages the want to say as an artist.
Insider's Guide to the 2024 Conference
October 24, 2023
October 24, 2023
Webinar
Learn the in's and out's of attending, performing, and thriving at Folk Alliance International's 2024 music conference! A great resource for advancing your career as a music industry professional.
Setting up a Private Lesson Business Sustainably
December 15, 2023
December 15, 2023
Webinar
Sponsored by Janet’s Planet
Learn best practices for running your own private music lesson's business! How to bring in good, consistent income as a music teacher, minimize cancellations from music students, and completely eliminate no-shows!
All About The MLC: Are You Getting All the Royalty Payments You Should Be?
January 18, 2024
January 18, 2024
Webinar
Sponsored by the Mechanical Licensing Collective
Make sure you are getting all the money you deserve for your music! Learn about various different revenue streams when it comes to making music and sharing it digitally -- and ways to make sure you are receiving the payments you deserve as an independent music artist!
An Introduction to Pandora’s AMP Creator Tools
February 13, 2024
February 13, 2024
Webinar
Sponsored by Pandora AMP
A guide on how to use Pandora's new, FREE online tool for musicians and artist, called Pandora AMP! This tool can make boosting your music and connecting with your fans and listeners so much easier and more personal -- all while costing you nothing/
Big Fat Cow: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)
July 5, 2024
July 5, 2024
In-Person Event
Our Finest Folk First Friday concert series returns in July with an incredible band Big Fat Cow – a homegrown project that'll give you a new reason to love KC! We've followed Big Fat Cow for a couple years now, and we're excited for them to take the stage in the FAI Office!
SoundExchange 101: An Introduction
July 18, 2024
July 18, 2024
Webinar
sponsored by SoundExchange
In this special webinar hosted by FAI, hear from Marc Rucker, SoundExchange Associate Director within the Brand Marketing and Industry Relations Group about who and what SX is, online registration, international royalties, advocacy and more!
Ashley Davis: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)
August 2, 2024
August 2, 2024
In-Person Event
"Ashley Davis has as much musicality as any musician could wish for.” Philip Glass. Think Joni Mitchell meets contemporary Celtic and you’ll get something like the creative force of Ashley Davis, an American singer-songwriter whose voice drifts over the Great Plains, north to New York City, and across the Atlantic.
Digital Music Royalties: The 4 Ways To Get Paid
August 22, 2024
August 22, 2024
Webinar
sponsored by The MLC
Join us for a breakdown of the digital music landscape, where we’ll explain the different rights involved and royalties due to creators of both musical works and sound recordings.
Summer Affinity Group Week!
August 26, 2024
August 26, 2024
Virtual Event
Connect with folks with shared backgrounds, cultures, and experiences during Affinity Group Week! Affinity Groups are unique networking sessions centered around community and providing space for marginalized and underrepresented voices.
Women Leading the Way: A Holistic Approach
September 26, 2024
September 26, 2024
Webinar
Kari Estrin Mgmt/Consulting & Radio Promo
Learn holistic ways to live your authentic life and strengthen your career, sponsored by Kari Estrin
Yella P: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)
October 4, 2024
October 4, 2024
In-Person Event
Free local music happening in Kansas City with Memphis based artist Yella P for Finest Folk First Fridays!
Danza Mexica Calpulli Iskali: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)
November 1, 2024
November 1, 2024
In-Person Event
Folk Alliance International host their last Finest Folk First Fridays of 2024, a free concert series they hold through out the year. Artist Danza Mexica Calpulli Iskalli perform a traditional ceremony including music and dance.
Slow Down and Listen: #GivingTuesday Open House
December 3, 2024
December 3, 2024
In-Person Event
Join Folk Alliance International for our #GivingTuesday event in person here in Kansas City, MO on December 3rd, 2024! Experience live performances, the announcement of the 2025 International Folk Music Awards nominations and winners, and more!
An Introduction to Pandora’s AMP Creator Tools
January 21, 2025
January 21, 2025
Webinar
Sponsored by Pandora AMP
An Introduction to Pandora’s AMP Creator Tools
All About The MLC: Are You Getting All the Royalty Payments You Should Be?
February 6, 2025
February 6, 2025
Webinar
Sponsored by The MLC
All About The MLC: Are You Getting All the Royalty Payments You Should Be?
Dalima Kapten and Jamogi & the Jammers: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)
May 2, 2025
May 2, 2025
In-Person Event
Kansas City Folk Fest
May 2025 FInest Folk First Fridays featuring artists Dalima Kapten and Jamogi & The Jammers! Happening May 2nd at 6pm in Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
The Swallowtails: Finest Folk First Fridays
June 6, 2025
June 6, 2025
In-Person Event
Free concert in Kansas City, Missouri! Featuring local band, The Swallowtails! Hosted by Folk Alliance International for our Finest Folk First Fridays annual concert series.
SoundExchange 101: From Registration to Royalties 
June 17, 2025
June 17, 2025
Webinar
SoundExchange
Learn all about SoundExchange and how they can assist you in getting the music royalties you deserve. A free, music industry webinar hosted by Folk Alliance International.
Qobuz: The DSP That Does Things Differently
June 17, 2025
June 17, 2025
Webinar
Qobuz
Learn all about music streaming platform Qobuz through this free, online webinar hosted by Folk Alliance International.
Get Paid for Your Music: A Webinar about The MLC
June 18, 2025
June 18, 2025
Webinar
The Mechanical Licensing Collective
Learn all about the Mechanical Licensing Collective and how to get paid for your music. A free webinar to learn more about the music industry, hosted by Folk Alliance International.
Roe on the Record
August 20, 2025
August 20, 2025
Roe on the Record monthly chat FAI folk
The Making of Woody at Home: The Home Tapes
September 18, 2025
September 18, 2025
Webinar
Join album producers as we delve into the process and backstory of the landmark release of Woody Guthrie’s home tapes.
From Showcase to Second Line: Insiders' Guide to Navigating Your First Folk Alliance Conference
September 23, 2025
September 23, 2025
Webinar
New to Folk Alliance International? Join us for an insider’s guide to making the most of your first conference experience in New Orleans this January.
Get More Gigs: How Bands Can Maximize GigSalad's Tools
October 14, 2025
October 14, 2025
Webinar
GigSalad
Ready to turn up the volume on your bookings? This webinar will walk you through the best ways to use GigSalad to land more shows, connect with event planners, and keep your calendar full.
Roe on the Record
October 15, 2025
October 15, 2025
Webinar
Pull up a chair and join Folk Alliance International’s Executive Director, Jennifer Roe, for a relaxed bi-monthly chat, Roe on the Record.
Keeping the Music Moving: A Town Hall on Touring with Instruments
October 27, 2025
October 27, 2025
Webinar
Traveling with instruments comes with unique challenges. This virtual town hall brings together artists who tour regularly to share stories, tips, and strategies for navigating airlines, customs, and instrument care on the road.
Pandora For Creators: An Introduction to AMP
December 11, 2025
December 11, 2025
Webinar
Pandora AMP
This webinar will introduce you to Pandora AMP, Artist Marketing Platform.
Shakedown Strings at Finest Folk First Fridays
April 3, 2026
April 3, 2026
In-Person Event
Shakedown Strings at Finest Folk First Fridays
2027 Chicago Conference Information Session
April 20, 2026
April 20, 2026
In-Person Event
Folk Alliance International is hosting an in-person information about our 2027 annual conference taking place in Chicago, Illinois.
Cowtown Country Club at Finest Folk First Fridays
May 1, 2026
May 1, 2026
In-Person Event
sponsored by Missouri Arts Council
This is our second live music event of the 2026 season, please come by and say hi! We will have a very special performance from Cowtown Country Club.
Maximize Your Membership: Getting the Most Out of Folk Alliance
May 7, 2026
May 7, 2026
Webinar
Maximize Your Membership: Getting the Most Out of Folk Alliance
Cultural Equity Council Town Hall: Safety in the Music Industry
May 19, 2026
May 19, 2026
Webinar
What does it take to feel safe in the music community?A virtual town hall for the FAI community hosted by members of the Cultural Equity Council.
Pablo Sanhueza at Finest Folk First Fridays
June 5, 2026
June 5, 2026
In-Person Event
Join us Friday, June 5th, for Finest Folk First Fridays! We will have a very special performance from Pablo Sanhueza.
Roe on the Record #6
June 17, 2026
June 17, 2026
Virtual Event
Roe on the Record returns! Pull up a chair and join Folk Alliance International’s Executive Director, Jennifer Roe, for a relaxed bi-monthly chat
Make More Money From Your Gigs
June 24, 2026
June 24, 2026
Webinar
GigLogic
Most artists aren't tracking the numbers—and it's costing them. Learn what you're really earning, how hidden costs impact profitability, and how to evaluate gigs, negotiate confidently, and make smarter career decisions.
Whiskey Mash Band at Finest Folk First Fridays
August 7, 2026
August 7, 2026
In-Person Event
Join us Friday, August 7th, for Finest Folk First Fridays! This is our fourth live music event of the 2026 season, please drop by and say hi! We will have a very special performance from Whiskey Mash Band.
Teachable Moments: Town Hall with the FAI Cultural Equity Council
August 27, 2026
August 27, 2026
Webinar
second virtual town hall hosted by members of the FAI Cultural Equity Council.

View event
We have webinars, workshops, and other events in the works! For updates sign up for our emails!

Past Events

Ashley Davis: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)

August 2 • Doors 5:45 pm CT • Music 6 - 7 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

SoundExchange 101: An Introduction

sponsored by SoundExchange

July 18 at 12 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Big Fat Cow: Finest Folk First Fridays (Free Concert)

July 5 • Doors 5:45 pm CT • Music from 6 - 7 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

An Introduction to Pandora’s AMP Creator Tools

Sponsored by Pandora AMP

February 13, 2024 at 12 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

All About The MLC: Are You Getting All the Royalty Payments You Should Be?

Sponsored by the Mechanical Licensing Collective

January 18, 2024 at 12 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Setting up a Private Lesson Business Sustainably

Sponsored by Janet’s Planet

December 15, 2023 11:30 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Insider's Guide to the 2024 Conference

October 24, 2023 at 1 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Dancing On Top of the Lyrics: Be an Effective Song Writer

Sponsored by Kari Estrin Management/Consulting

October 3, 2024 at 1 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Cover Your Assets: Will and Estate Planning with Northwestern Mutual

Sponsored by Northwestern Mutual

August 30, 2023 at 11 am CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Pro Feedback on Your Tracks

Presented by Myxt

June 20, 2023 at 12 pm CT

LEARN MOREWatch

Thank you to our Funders!

Dreihaus Foundation
Kemper Family Foundations
Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation
Missouri Arts Cuoncil
Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation
National Endowment for the Arts